Review of Michael (1996) by Scott K — 12 Oct 2008

A very unconventional comedy from Nora Ephron, so unconventional that I have difficulty comprehending it. It certainly doesn't focus on plot, it's more concerned with strange mood and non-sequiturs.

It is astounding how much of the film's elements are inconsequential, which is more of an achievement than a flaw. There's a random bullfighting scene for no reason, and nearly two dozen impromptu dance scenes and sing-a-longs (that's not an exaggeration, I'd say about 50% of the film's dialogue is sung).

Also, there's a scene where the posse gets into a "mild barroom brawl" (which is why the film is rated PG apparently) which leads to their arrest and next-day trial, which is resolved by the judge (Teri Garr cameo) having sex with the film's titular angel.

Bare in mind, this whole section of the movie takes up about 4 minutes. The rest of the film is about as packed as this, and yet for being so eventful, so little happens. As you can probably tell, this movie haunts and disturbs me.

I'll probably never be able to forget it, so I guess that's worth something. Recommended for the adventurous viewer.